2016 SESSION

HB 771 Asset forfeiture; seizure of property, report.

SUMMARY AS INTRODUCED:

Asset forfeiture. Prohibits a law-enforcement agency from requesting, requiring, or otherwise inducing a person who asserts a lawful right to property seized for the purpose of forfeiture to waive his interest in or rights to the property until an information
is filed. The bill allows attorneys for the Commonwealth to electronically notify the Department of Motor Vehicles, in a manner approved by the Commissioner, that a vehicle has been seized. A provision is added allowing a forfeiture proceeding to be stayed if it is also related to a warrant. The Department of Criminal Justice Services will be required to prepare an annual report to the Governor and General Assembly regarding information on all drug and nondrug asset seizures and forfeitures. The report shall be available to the public. This bill is a recommendation of the Virginia State Crime Commission. This bill is identical to SB 423.